BLACKSTONE — Library Director Lisa Cheever and the Blackstone Public Library Board of Trustees are excited to invite community members to join in on the fun during an outstanding October at the library, with a slate of events that includes a special presentation on the paranormal given by a star from the television show Ghosthunters, along with reading sessions featuring certified therapy dogs. The Blackstone Public Library is located at 86 Main St.
Monthly Activity Highlight:
Wag, Read, Repeat: Therapy Dogs Return to Blackstone Library
The Blackstone Public Library is inviting young readers to curl up with some of the most patient listeners around — our four-legged friends Bear, Lady, Willoughby, and Pearl. As part of the library’s popular Wag and Read — Reading with a Therapy Dog program, children ages 5 and up can practice their reading skills with a certified therapy dog who never interrupts, judges, or spoils the ending.
Each child can reserve one 15-minute session per month. These Monday evening meetups are scheduled for Oct. 6 (6:30-7:30 p.m.), Oct. 20 (5-6 p.m.), and Oct. 27 (6:30-7:30 p.m.), with additional sessions this year set for November and December. Spots are limited, and registration is required — but don’t worry, the dogs promise to keep their calendars open.
- WHEN: Monday evenings, including 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Oct. 6, 5-6 p.m. on Oct. 20 and 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Oct. 27.
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration required. To reserve a spot, call 508-883-1931 or email Children’s Librarian Tressy Collier at tcollier@cwmars.org.
Children’s Programs:
LEGO Challenge Offers Kids a Chance to Build
The Blackstone Public Library LEGO Club is back. The club typically meets once a month on Thursday evenings. The Blackstone Public Library LEGO Club is strictly for children ages 6 and up. Participants are given a monthly challenge with a general theme, giving them the chance to use LEGOs to build animals, vehicles, homes, people and even food. Children will be able to work alone, team up with friends, or collaborate with parents. Space is limited to 20 kids for each event.
- WHEN: 6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 23
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration required. Participants must be at least 6 years old. Space is limited to 20 children per meeting. To register or to get more information, please visit the library or call 508-883-1931.
Spooky Season Crafts at the Blackstone Library
The werewolves are howling, the witches are flying, and the skeletons are rattling their bones — which can only mean one thing: Halloween is almost here. The Blackstone Public Library is getting into the spirit with a drop-in craft night that’s more fun than frightening.
On Tuesday, Oct. 14, from 5-7 p.m., little ghosts, goblins, and ghouls (ages 3 and up) are invited to stop by and make their very own Q-tip skeleton. No registration is required — just bring your imagination and maybe a parent to hold the glue.
- WHEN: 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: No registration required. For more details, call 508-883-1931, visit www.blackstonepubliclibrary.org or email Children’s Librarian Tressy Collier at tcollier@cwmars.org.
A Haunted Hunt Through the Library Stacks
Think the library is empty after hours? Not this time, as ghouls, goblins and zombies prowl about on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 6 p.m. Kids ages 3-10 are invited to explore the Blackstone Public Library after closing time for a Halloween scavenger hunt.
Costumes are highly encouraged — the scarier, sillier, or spookier, the better. Brave participants can creep through the spooky stacks in search for tombstones, skeletons, scarecrows, witches, and maybe even a librarian or two handing out special treats.
Registration is required, and spots are limited. Blackstone residents may register beginning Monday, Oct. 6, while registration opens to all patrons on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Please note, families with food allergies should inform Children’s Librarian Tressy Collier know when signing up.
- WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 6 p.m.
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration required (in person or by phone at 508-883-1931). For more details, visit www.blackstonepubliclibrary.org or email Children’s Librarian Tressy Collier at tcollier@cwmars.org.
Adult Programs at the Blackstone Public Library:
Take a Trip into the World of the Paranormal
What exactly are shadow people — spirits, aliens, tricks of the mind, or something else entirely? Explore these mysteries with paranormal investigator Dustin Pari.
From the television shows Ghost Hunters and Ghost Nation to Destination Truth, Dustin has spent years traveling the globe in search of answers to what lurks in the darkness.
In his presentation “Searching Shadows,” Pari shares the encounter that first pulled him into the supernatural, along with stories and insights from his career investigating the unexplained. Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or simply curious, this spine-tingling evening promises to shed a little light on the unknown.
- WHEN: 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration is required. Visit the events page at blackstonepubliclibrary.org or call 508-883-1931 to sign up. This event is sponsored by Dean Bank.
Finding Bigfoot with Ronny LeBlanc
Is Bigfoot real? And if so, how close might it actually be? On Monday, Oct. 20, at 6:30 p.m., join author and researcher Ronny LeBlanc at the Blackstone Public Library as he shares stories, evidence, and theories about the legendary creature that has fascinated believers and skeptics alike.
This engaging talk invites you to keep an open mind. You never know what might be hiding in the woods.
- WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 20
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration required. To sign up, visit the events page at www.blackstonepubliclibrary.org or call 508-883-1931. This event is sponsored by the Blackstone Cultural Council.
Get Help with Applications with Jenna Gouin
Need assistance with an application for public assistance? How about a referral to a community organization? Jenna Gouin will be at the library to help during her office hours. Book a 30-minute session and get it done. Gouin, who earned master’s degrees in business administration and organizational leadership from Nichols College in 2015, provides assistance to clients through this program in partnership with the Blackstone Valley Partnership for Public Health. Examples of tasks Gouin helps clients with include MassHealth registration, signing up for fuel assistance and applying for Social Security benefits.
- WHEN: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 20
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration for a 30-minute session is required for participation. Call 508-883-1931 to register or to get more information.
Give it Your Best Shot at the Photography Club
Join other photographers to discuss various topics, including equipment and techniques. Each month, the Blackstone Photography Club hosts a guest speaker, exploring all things photography-related and providing special insight into the craft. Snacks will be provided.
- WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration is required. Call the Blackstone Public Library at 508-883-1931 for more information or to register. This club is sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library.
Blackstone Quilters Assemble at the Library
Patch it up with a group of like-minded crafters by joining the Quilting Club at the Blackstone Public Library. Come together for a relaxing and creative gathering with fellow quilters. Not a quilter? Become one. Each meeting is an opportunity to learn, relax, share ideas, work on projects, and enjoy each other’s company.
- WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 23
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Call the Blackstone Public Library at 508-883-1931 for more information. This club is sponsored by the Friends of the Blackstone Library.
More than Books: Borrow Appliances, Board Games, Puzzles and Even a Telescope
Have you ever heard about the Library of Things? Through the Blackstone Public Library, you can follow through with those healthy eating goals by borrowing the library’s blender, allowing you to make a smoothie packed with vitamins (fruits and vegetables not included). Graduations and graduation parties are just around the corner. Borrow fun outdoor games offered by the Library of Things to bring the graduation festivities to a whole new level. Just call the library with your library card ready at 508-883-1931 to reserve items from the Library of Things. To browse the catalogue for the Library of Things, click here.
More than Books: Ghostbusters Edition
In honor of the Halloween season, patrons of the Blackstone Public Library are being provided the means to go ghost hunting. Patrons who are interested in the paranormal can check out the library’s dowsing rods and ghost hunter tool kit.
For those patrons who are 18 or older, a special ghost hunting thermal imager is available, along with a ghost hunting spirit box and a ghost hunting ghost meter EMF sensor.
Visit or call the Blackstone Public Library at 508-883-1931 for more information.
Ghostly Mop Art: Adult Crafting at the Blackstone Library
Get ready to add a little spooky flair to your walls. Join library staff member Jean Piechocki for Ghostly Mop Art, an adult crafting session where you’ll create fun and festive ghost-themed wall decor. No experience? No problem — all supplies are provided, and all skill levels are welcome.
Choose from two sessions: Thursday, Oct. 9, at 6:30 p.m. or Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 1 p.m. Each class is limited to 20 participants, so sign up early.
- WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9, or 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration is required. For more information or to sign up, please contact library staff member Jean Piechocki at jpiechocki@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931. This event is funded by a donation from the Blackstone Library’s LIG MEG, authorized by the Board of Library Trustees.
Jolly, Luminous Jack-o-Lanterns: Senior Crafting at Blackstone Library
Light up your autumn with a little creativity on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 1 p.m. Seniors are invited to the Library Meeting Room to make Jolly, Luminous Jack-o-Lanterns.
These cheerful, glowing decorations are guaranteed to bring a grin to any space — and no crafting experience is needed. All supplies are provided.
This program is for adults 60 and older and is limited to 20 participants, so registration is required. Blackstone Library staff recommend signing up early to secure your spot.
- WHEN: 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 16
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library, Meeting Room
- MORE INFO: Registration is required. For more information or to sign up, please contact library staff member Jean Piechocki at jpiechocki@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931. This event is funded by a donation from the Blackstone Library’s LIG MEG, authorized by the Board of Library Trustees.
Haunted Gingerbread Houses: Adult Halloween Crafting
Get your spooky sweets on at this adult Halloween crafting event on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 6 p.m. Adults are invited to the Blackstone Public Library to craft their very own Haunted Gingerbread Houses. They’re eerie, edible and fun.
No prior experience needed, just a love of Halloween and creativity. Space is limited to 20 participants, so be sure to register early. Blackstone residents may sign up starting Monday, Sept. 22, with registration opening for all other patrons on Monday, Oct. 6.
- WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 6 p.m.
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration is required. For more information or to sign up, please contact library staff member Jean Piechocki at jpiechocki@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931. This event is funded by a donation from the Blackstone Library’s LIG MEG, authorized by the Board of Library Trustees.
Seasonal “Favorite” Family Recipes Cooking Club: Fall Edition
Bring your autumn flavors to the table. The Blackstone Public Library invites families and food lovers to share their favorite fall recipes in this potluck-style cooking club on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. Join together and swap tips, stories, and tasty bites, as everyone celebrates the flavors of the season. Registration is required to participate, and spots may fill quickly.
- WHEN: 6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 23
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Call 508-883-1931 to register. For more information or to sign up, please contact library staff member Jean Piechocki at jpiechocki@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931. This event is funded by a donation from the Friends of the Blackstone Library.
Scrap it Up: Learn How to Preserve Family Memories
Scrap your other plans for the evening. A family history scrapbooking class is being held at 5 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 2, at the Blackstone Public Library. This is an opportunity to create beautiful scrapbooks, meant to preserve memories and family history. Guests at this Blackstone Public Library event are asked to bring at least four photographs each to use in the scrapbook, along with information about the subject. The rest of the supplies will be provided by library staff.
- WHEN: 5 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 2
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration is required. For more information or to sign up, please contact library staff member Jean Piechocki at jpiechocki@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931. This program is funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Federal Library Services Act, as administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
Young Adult Programs at the Blackstone Public Library: Have It Your Way
Choose your own path and join the fun with fellow middle school-age students at the Choose Your Own Adventure Read-Aloud Book Club. Group members get to decide together on which path to take as they go through Choose Your Own Adventure stories each Tuesday afternoon. This group of adventurers invites participants to read the stories out loud together.
- WHEN: 4 p.m., every Tuesday in October
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Registration required. Open to 5th through 8th-grade students. For more information or to register, call 508-883-1931 or email Mandi Whipple, Young Adult Librarian, at mwhipple@cwmars.org.
Influence the Future of the Library
The monthly meeting of the Teen Advisory Board gives local youth a chance to make their voice heard regarding the future of the Blackstone Public Library and its Young Adult Area. Teenagers now have a chance to share their opinions on books, materials, and programs at the library. Come on down and have a say.
- WHEN: 5 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: No registration required. Open to students in grades 5 through 12. For more information, call 508-883-1931 or email Mandi Whipple, Young Adult Librarian, at mwhipple@cwmars.org.
Cursive Comeback: Keep in the Loop with Old-Fashioned Penmanship
Cursive handwriting used to be a standard part of the curriculum in schools, but its use has sharply declined in recent decades, falling out of favor as education has become more digital. But it’s making a comeback, including at the Blackstone Public Library, where younger generations will be able to practice their penmanship at 5 p.m. every Thursday.
- WHEN: 5 p.m., every Thursday in October
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: No registration required. Open to students in grades 5 through 12. For more information, call 508-883-1931 or email Mandi Whipple, Young Adult Librarian, at mwhipple@cwmars.org.
Technology 101: Learn the Basics of Computers, Smartphones and the Internet
For all the tech novices out there, here’s your chance to learn the basics of email, the internet, computers, social media and smartphones. Technology Assistant Hannah Rishel is offering basic hour-long classes on how to use technology, including online library services, such as databases and ebooks.
- WHEN: Scheduling by appointment
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Classes are by appointment only and can be scheduled by calling the Blackstone Public Library at 508-883-1931 or by emailing Technology Assistant Hannah Rishel at hrishel@cwmars.org.
Ongoing Book Groups:
The Blackstone Book Group Examines ‘Small Things Like These’
The Evening Book Group, also known as the Blackstone Book Group, offers participants the chance to discuss amazing works of literature with like-minded readers. This month the group is delving into “Yellowface,” by R.F. Kuang, a 2023 novel that satires racial diversity in the publishing industry, touching on issues of cultural appropriation, racism, and the exploitation of marginalized voices. The novel follows June Hayward, a struggling white author whose career is going nowhere, along with her successful writer friend, Athena Liu. When Athena suddenly dies in a freak accident, June steals the manuscript of Athena’s unpublished novel about Chinese laborers in World War I.
- WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Contact Renee Milliken at rmilliken@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931.
Get Spooked with the Grim Reader’s Society, a Horror Book Club
The strange, scary and mysterious world of horror literature comes alive with the Grim Reader’s Society, also known as The Horror Book Club, at the Blackstone Public Library. This monthly book club focuses on spooky, spine-tingling tales. The Grim Reader’s Society welcomes newcomers, if they are brave enough. Scaredy cats are welcome, too. Copies of the book of the month are available at the front desk.
- WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 2
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Contact Tressy Collier at tcollier@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931.
Saddle Up with a Book at the Senior Center
The Senior Center Book Club is back with a meeting scheduled for 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21. This group meets on the third Tuesday morning of every month at the Senior Center on St. Paul Street. Monthly books are available at the library’s front desk or the Senior Center. New members are always welcome.
- WHEN: 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21
- WHERE: Blackstone Senior Center, 15 St. Paul St.
- MORE INFO: Contact Ellen Goudreau at egoudreau@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931.
Spend an Afternoon Recapping the Latest Book of the Month
The Afternoon Book Club meets on the last Tuesday of each month. Join the group for a lively chat and a cup of tea. Take a seat, relax and unwind during an afternoon of great conversation about the Afternoon Book Club’s latest book of the month. Newcomers are welcome. Copies of the book of the month are available at the front desk.
- WHEN: 3 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28
- WHERE: Blackstone Public Library
- MORE INFO: Contact Donna Foster at dfoster@cwmars.org or call 508-883-1931.
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